The hospitals and clinics of Hospital da Luz network will offer, on June 15 and 18, free screening for excess weight and eating disorders in children and youths (up to 17) . The screening will be ensured by pediatricians via videoconsultation , upon previous scheduling by interested parents. This Hospital da Luz initiative is intended to include all children and youths, with or without a diagnosis of excess weight or eating disorders . Note that: In Portugal, child obesity has been growing alarmingly, with rates higher than the European average. Moreover, certain diseases associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, have been increasing among the younger population at a disturbing pace; It is estimated that the confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated the obesity problems, since children have practised few physical exercise and spent more hours at home and in front of a screen; In all children since the 1 st year of life , besides weight and height, the BMI (Body Mass Index) should be evaluated regularly and inscribed in percentile curves. This will allow to identify and correct early on any trend to excess weight; Children with obese, diabetic parents or with cardiovascular diseases , should be subject to particular surveillance; There are certain eating behaviours – that are at the root of diseases such as anorexia, bulimia and food phobia – parents should be especially attentive to. The regular follow-up in Pediatrics is very important for a healthy development and welfare of children and youths. “The paediatricians in Hospital da Luz network are available to clear any doubts of parents, children and youths. Talk to us via this free video screening: we will be able to identify if there is excess of weight or possible eating disorders to be dealt with in a specific consultation, providing you with adequate counselling”, highlights João Farela Neves , the director of Hospital da Luz Lisboa Pediatrics Service. Schedule now an appointment for your children in these screenings offered by Hospital da Luz! Date and time: 15 and 18 June, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Scheduling: MY LUZ (click on Book an appointment > choose tab Video consultation > on the field with the list of video consultations choose Pediatrics Video Screening )
